Literacy Champion Ruth Johnson Colvin Dies at 107, Leaving Lasting Legacy

Ruth Johnson Colvin, a tireless advocate for adult literacy and founder of Literacy Volunteers of America, passed away on August 18, 2024, in Syracuse, New York, at the age of 107. Her remarkable life was dedicated to combating illiteracy and empowering individuals through education.

Colvin's journey began in 1962 when she established Literacy Volunteers of America after learning that 11,000 people in her local area were illiterate, according to the 1960 census. This revelation sparked a lifelong mission to address a problem that many Americans were unaware existed at the time.

"In the 1950s, America was unaware it had an illiteracy problem. We thought illiteracy was in India, Africa, China. Not in America."

From its humble beginnings in Colvin's basement, her organization expanded across the United States and internationally. Colvin and her husband, Bob Colvin, traveled to numerous countries, training volunteers in simple yet effective methods to teach reading. Their 73-year marriage ended with Bob's passing in 2014.

Colvin's efforts gained widespread recognition. In 2006, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, from President George W. Bush. This award, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, acknowledges individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation's interests, world peace, or cultural endeavors.

In 1993, Colvin was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls, New York, a fitting tribute to her role in advancing education and empowerment. Seneca Falls is historically significant as the birthplace of the American women's rights movement. Additionally, in 1987, she received the President's National Volunteer Action Award from President Ronald Reagan, an honor established in 1982 to recognize outstanding volunteer service.

Colvin's impact extended beyond her organizational work. She authored several books, including a memoir titled "My Travels Through Life, Love and Literacy," published in 2020 when she was 103 years old. Her writing reflected her philosophy of embracing passion and faith to make a difference in the world.

The organization Colvin founded eventually merged with Laubach Literacy in 2002 to form ProLiteracy, now the largest adult literacy and basic education membership organization in the United States. ProLiteracy continues to be guided by Colvin's fundamental belief that literacy is a basic human right.

Colvin's work aligns with global efforts to combat illiteracy. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals aim to achieve literacy for all youth and a substantial proportion of adults by 2030. This goal is crucial, considering that illiteracy costs the global economy over $1 trillion annually, according to the World Literacy Foundation.

The impact of Colvin's work is immeasurable, reflected in the countless lives she touched. ProLiteracy's tribute highlighted the hundreds of letters Colvin received over the years from tutors, students, and supporters, each representing a life changed through literacy.

Ruth Johnson Colvin's legacy serves as a reminder that one person's passion and dedication can indeed make a profound difference in the world. Her life's work continues to inspire and guide efforts to promote literacy and education globally.